Last week, year 6 students from St Paul’s Kealba set out on an exciting journey to Urban Camp, a unique school camp facility nestled in Royal Park, Melbourne.
Since its inception in 1984, Urban Camp has welcomed more than 250,000 young visitors, providing many with their first glimpse of city life. Urban Camp takes kids on a discovery of Melbourne to explore attractions such as the Eureka Skydeck, ACMI, The War Memorial, and the MCG.
St Paul’s Kealba teacher John McCall said the camp provides children with a chance to visit the city in a supported, immersive way.
“Kealba is an amazing multicultural area and not all families have had the chance to explore Melbourne and Victoria – many are still finding their feet,” Mr McCall said.
“This experience allows our students to become the teachers as sometimes students after their camp will then take their families into Melbourne to show them the city.
“All kids love going to the MCG. It is so iconic to Melbourne. We took the MCG tour this camp and not one student had ever been on the tour before. The MCG is something they see on TV and for them to walk through the stands, down onto the ground and see the insides of the stadium was just amazing.”
Mr McCall said Urban Camp helps teach students leadership skills and aids in their transition to secondary school.
“Students get used to catching public transport which they may need to do as they transition into secondary school,” he said.
“One of the grade 6 boys had his first tram ride. It was great watching the smile on face when it jolted as it leapt forward.”
